BOISE – Despite the availability of more electric vehicle (EV) models than ever before, some Americans are still reluctant to make the jump.  According to new research by AAA, just 16% of U.S. adults are “likely” or “very likely” to purchase an EV as their next car.

“Many survey respondents identified the high cost of battery repairs and the EV’s initial purchase price as significant barriers to buying a fully electric vehicle at this time,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde.  “Some people also have lingering concerns about EV range and a lack of convenient public charging stations.  As prospective EV owners gain more knowledge and personal experience, many of these concerns may subside over time.”

AAA reminds drivers that electric vehicles offer a range on a single charge that is far greater than what most will need each day.  In response to the need for additional EV charging infrastructure, AAA has moved forward with the installation of DC fast charging capability at its Boise Service Center and at several AAA locations along the I-5 corridor in Oregon.

“Steady access to reliable charging stations weighs heavily on current and prospective EV owners.  Our goal is to enable the Great American Road Trip, regardless of how your vehicle is powered,” Conde said.  “The AAA Mobile App can also alleviate some stress by helping you find the EV charging stations and gas stations in the vicinity.”

Why buy an EV?

When the U.S. average price of gasoline reached $5 per gallon in 2022, 77% of survey respondents that year stated that gas savings were the primary motivation to make the change to an electric vehicle.  But current gas prices are significantly cheaper than in recent years, and some potential EV buyers may hold off for the time being.

As in years past, many Americans who are interested in purchasing an EV report a desire to capture savings while being eco-friendly.

The future of EVs

The percentage of U.S. drivers who believe that most cars will be electric within the next ten years has dropped from 40% in 2022 to 23% this year.

While EVs may have higher up-front costs, they also use some of the cheapest fuel (electricity) and have fewer repair and maintenance needs than an internal combustion engine.

Additional AAA resources include:

  • AAA Car Guide: For those in the market for newer EVs, the online resources also contain links to the two prior editions in 2022 and 2023. 
  • Your Driving Cost Calculator: An online resource available to consumers that gives a yearly breakdown of EV and other vehicle ownership costs  
  • EV Research: AAA in-house experts research consumer sentiment around EVs and their functionality.
  • AAA.com/charge

“Many Americans are interested in taking a middle-of-the-road approach by purchasing a hybrid, or by having a ‘hybrid garage’ that includes a gas or diesel-powered vehicle for longer trips, and an EV for shorter distances,” Conde said.  “But as people get more comfortable with an EV, they may discover far more uses for it than they might realize.”